Predator Insect Disguises Itsself with Consumed Prey as Camouflage, Identified as 'Bone Collector' Caterpillar

In the lush Waianae Mountains of Oahu, a rare and intriguing creature has been making its home for over two decades. Known as the bone collector caterpillar, this unique species has captured the attention of entomologists and nature enthusiasts alike.

First spotted by entomologist Dan Rubinoff nearly 20 years ago, the bone collector caterpillar has been the subject of extensive research. Over the past two decades, a total of 62 bone-collector caterpillars have been observed, all within a 15-square-kilometer (almost 6-square-mile) range.

The bone collector caterpillar is native to the Hawaiian Islands and is the only species in its line. Other members of the genus Hyposmocoma are represented by multiple species on several Hawaiian Islands, but the bone collector stands alone.

The lineage of the bone collector moth is at least 6 million years old, older than the island of Oahu itself. While the origin of its ancestors is not definitively known, it is possible they may have come from a different island.

The bone collector caterpillar resides in a spider web, usually tucked away in a tree, log, or rock cavity. It waits patiently in its web, preying on insects that have become trapped there. To blend in with its surroundings, the caterpillar uses body parts of dead insects as camouflage while searching for prey. In a unique twist, it also incorporates shed skin of its eight-legged landlord into its disguise.

To further hide its scent and texture, the bone collector caterpillar masks itself with leftovers from prey that the spider had dined on. After a few months of feeding, the caterpillar seals off the open end of its case, which will become its cocoon.

The bone collector caterpillar is a carnivorous moth, belonging to the genus Hyposmocoma. It is the first known species to live in spider hunting grounds and fully decorate itself with body parts. This fascinating creature was officially described by researchers on April 25 in the journal Science.

Dan Rubinoff expresses his delight at the discovery of the bone collector caterpillar, stating that it was a close call for the species before it went extinct. The bone collector is indeed a unique and captivating addition to the diverse wildlife of the Hawaiian Islands.

Predator Insect Disguises Itsself with Consumed Prey as Camouflage, Identified as 'Bone Collector' Caterpillar